Subaru is known for its symmetrical all-wheel drive system standard across the line, save for some domestic-market models. A recent report suggests that fuel economy will soon become a priority for the Japanese automaker, and Subaru has plans to unveil a new, more fuel-efficient version of its popular boxer engine.
According to a Nikkei report sourced by Automotive News, Subaru will soon unveil an updated version of its four-cylinder boxer engine, which may reduce fuel consumption by as much as 10 percent. The redesign would mark the first major change in the Subaru's horizontally opposed engine in nearly two decades. While details remain murky, the report suggests the engine will displace between 2.0 and 2.5 liters and will be paired to a continuously variable transmission to maximize efficiency. The engine is expected to make its first appearance in the Forester compact SUV by the end of 2010, and will be followed by applications in the Legacy and Impreza.
Current 2010 Boxer Engine...
Current 2010 Boxer Engine
We're unsure whether the new powerplant will use a turbocharger for more boost, but the engine will likely utilize direct injection. Stop-start technology may be available in Subaru's home market, but we don't suspect the fuel-saving equipment will make its way here in the near future. However, the automaker, like many others, has a long way to go in order to meet the looming fuel economy regulations for 2016.
Subaru has also previously announced that it is developing hybrid technology for future models, but has ruled out a diesel for the U.S. market, for now. Will a revised version of its tried-and-true powerplant be enough for the time being?